Review: Combinatorial nutrient stresses reveal emergent properties ($) (TIPS)

Plants require at least 14 mineral nutrients to complete their life cycle. These mineral nutrients are unevenly distributed within the soil, and plants have evolved physiological adaptations (changes in root growth, exudation, symbiotic relationships with soil organisms, etc.). to address these nutrient limitations. In this review, Bouain and colleagues discuss the growing evidence supporting overlapping regulation of homeostasis for several essential minerals. The research within this review highlights several important interactions that have drawn recent intrigue: the interplay between P, Fe, and Zn their effects on root growth; the reciprocal regulation of P and N transporters under varying P and N levels; and the enhancement of Zn uptake in the presence of N. The authors highlight the need for more research in combinatorial nutrient stresses to further reveal their distinct genetic architecture, and their effects on root system architecture and soil biotic interactions. (Summary by Nathan Scinto-Madonich)  Trends Plant Sci. 10.1016/j.tplants.2019.03.008.